An End-User-Focused Building Energy Audit: A High-Density Multi-residential Development in Melbourne, Australia

Abstract

This chapter aims to demonstrate a building energy audit process using a case study of high-density multi-residential modular development in inner Melbourne, Australia. An energy audit is essential to understand where and how energy is used in buildings and consequently to identify those areas where improvements can be made. It includes a series of activities such as pre-survey data collection, walk-through inspection, data collection, analysis of the data collected and formulation of energy efficiency solutions. Extensive data were collected including indoor condition monitoring, occupant feedback and utility usage. The occupant survey identified thermal discomfort in summer, reporting overheating, dry and stuffy conditions. Energy consumption in the case study building was found to be significantly less than the average consumption in the same suburb. Surprisingly, energy consumption was found to be more likely to be affected by housing tenure types than physical building conditions such as orientation and height. The impact of building materials on occupants and the provision of air conditioning systems in the individual unit need to be further researched to resolve overheating problems. It is recommended that not only the design and physical conditions of buildings but also the socio-economic status of building residents could be main factors to achieve a high level of energy efficiency in multi-residential buildings.